FORSYTH, GA -- Commissioner Homer Bryson announced the promotion of Shunda Woods as Deputy Warden of Care & Treatment at Valdosta State Prison effective November 16, 2015. Formerly serving as Chief Counselor of Valdosta State Prison, Woods will now be responsible for the supervision of education, health services, library, counseling and mental health counseling. Valdosta State Prison houses 1,312 close security male inmates.

“Shunda has dedicated 15-years to the staff and the inmates at Valdosta State Prison,” said Commissioner Bryson. “I am confident she will continue to excel and provide her expertise and knowledge to the staff and inmates of this facility.”

Woods began her career with the Department in 2000 as a Correctional Officer at Valdosta State Prison. During her tenure at Valdosta State Prison, she has served as Counselor and Chief Counselor. Woods has a Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice and her departmental training includes Basic Correctional Officer Training (BCOT), Basic Management Training (BMT), Advanced Management Training (AMT), and Deputy Warden of Care & Treatment Academy.

The GDC has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees.